1, 2. Why did many people not understand the meaning of Jesus’ words?

WHEN someone is speaking to us, we may hear the sound of his voice and even notice the tone of his voice. But to understand what he is saying, we need to understand the meaning of his words. (1 Corinthians 14:9) Jesus spoke to thousands in their own language. But not all of them understood the meaning of his words. So Jesus said: “Listen to me, all of you, and understand the meaning.”​—Mark 7:14.

² Why did many of these people not understand what Jesus meant? Some already had their own opinions or even had wrong motives. Jesus said about these people: “You skillfully disregard the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition.” (Mark 7:9) They did not try to get the meaning of Jesus’ words. They did not want to change their customs and their opinions. These people heard with their ears but did not understand with their heart. (Read Matthew 13:13-15.) How can we make sure that we are always willing to learn from Jesus’ teaching?

HOW WE CAN BENEFIT FROM JESUS’ TEACHING

3. Why could the disciples understand Jesus’ words?

³ We need to follow the example of Jesus’ humble disciples. He said to them: “Happy are your eyes because they see and your ears because they hear.” (Matthew 13:16) Why were they able to understand Jesus’ words when others could not? They took three steps. First, they were willing to ask questions and try to find out what Jesus really meant. (Matthew 13:36; Mark 7:17) Second, they were willing to add the new things they were learning to what they had already accepted in their hearts. (Read Matthew 13:11, 12.) Third, they were willing to use what they learned to help themselves and others.​—Matthew 13:51, 52.

4. What three steps are necessary to understand Jesus’ illustrations?

⁴ Like the disciples, we also need to take three steps if we want to understand Jesus’ illustrations. First, we need to take the time to study and meditate on Jesus’ words, do research, and ask the right questions. That is knowledge. (Proverbs 2:4, 5) Second, we need to see how this knowledge connects with what we already know and how it can benefit us personally. That is understanding. (Proverbs 2:2, 3) Third, we should use what we have learned and apply it in our lives. That is wisdom.​—Proverbs 2:6, 7.

5. Illustrate the difference between knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.

⁵ What is the difference between knowledge, understanding, and wisdom? It could be illustrated this way: Imagine you are standing in the middle of a road and a bus is coming toward you. First, you see that it is a bus​—that is knowledge. Next, you realize that if you remain standing there, you will be hit by the bus​—that is understanding! So you jump out of the way of the bus​—that is wisdom! The Bible tells us to “safeguard practical wisdom” because it can save our life!​—Proverbs 3:21, 22; 1 Timothy 4:16.

6. What four questions will we ask while examining seven of Jesus’ illustrations? (See the box.)

⁶ In this article and the next, we will examine seven illustrations that Jesus used. We will ask the following questions: What does the illustration mean? (This is knowledge.) Why did Jesus tell us this illustration? (This is understanding.) How can we use this information to help ourselves and others? (This is wisdom.) Finally, what does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

THE MUSTARD GRAIN

7. What is the meaning of Jesus’ illustration of the mustard grain?

⁷ Read Matthew 13:31, 32. What is the meaning of Jesus’ illustration of the mustard grain? The mustard grain represents both the Kingdom message that we preach and the Christian congregation. When the Christian congregation started in 33 C.E., it was very small, like “the tiniest of all the seeds.” In a short time, it grew rapidly because of the preaching work. Many did not expect that it would grow as much and as fast as it did. (Colossians 1:23) Jesus tells us that “the birds of heaven” were able to “find lodging among its branches.” This means that as the Christian congregation grew bigger, those with good hearts found spiritual food, shade, and shelter there.​—Compare Ezekiel 17:23.

8. Why did Jesus use the illustration about the mustard grain?

⁸ Why did Jesus use this illustration? He used the amazing growth of a mustard grain to illustrate how God’s Kingdom grows, how it protects, and how it overcomes all obstacles. Since 1914, the growth of the Christian congregation has been extraordinary. (Isaiah 60:22) Those who are part of this congregation are helped to stay close to Jehovah. (Proverbs 2:7; Isaiah 32:1, 2) No opposition can stop the congregation from growing.​—Isaiah 54:17.

9. (a) What can we learn from the illustration of the mustard grain? (b) What does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

⁹ What can we learn from the illustration of the mustard grain? We may live in an area where there are not many Witnesses and there is not much growth. Yet, we must never forget that the Kingdom can overcome any obstacle. This will give us the strength to endure. For example, when Brother Edwin Skinner arrived in India in 1926, there were not many Witnesses and the work was “hard going” because the growth was very slow. But he kept on preaching and saw the Kingdom message overcome great obstacles. Today there are more than 37,000 Witnesses in India, and more than 108,000 attended the Memorial in 2013. In the same year that Brother Skinner arrived in India, the work had just started in Zambia. Now there are more than 170,000 Witnesses there, and 763,915 attended the Memorial in 2013. This means that 1 in every 18 persons in Zambia attended the Memorial. What amazing growth!

THE LEAVEN

10. What is the meaning of the illustration of the leaven?

¹⁰ Read Matthew 13:33. What is the meaning of the illustration of the leaven? This illustration refers to the Kingdom message and how it changes people’s lives. “The whole mass” of flour represents all the nations. The fermenting process pictures the way the Kingdom message is spreading as a result of the preaching work. While the growth of the mustard grain is visible right away, the spreading of the leaven is not. Only some time later do we see the results.

11. Why did Jesus use the illustration about the leaven?

¹¹ Why did Jesus use this illustration? Jesus showed that the Kingdom message has the power to reach “the most distant part of the earth” and to cause many changes in the hearts of people. (Acts 1:8) At first we may not notice these changes, but they are happening. Large numbers of people everywhere are accepting the Kingdom message and are letting this powerful message change their personality.​—Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:22, 23.

12, 13. Give examples of how the preaching work has grown just as described in the illustration about the leaven.

¹² The effect of the preaching work is often seen years after people first hear the message. For example, back in 1982, Franz and Margit, a couple who were serving at Bethel in Brazil, witnessed in a small town. They started several Bible studies, one with a mother and her four children. The oldest boy was just 12 years old at the time. He was very shy and often tried to hide before the study began. Because of a change of assignment, Franz and Margit could not continue the study. Twenty-five years later, they went back for a visit. Imagine their joy when they found a congregation of 69 publishers, 13 of whom were regular pioneers, all meeting in a new Kingdom Hall! And that shy boy had grown up and now serves as the coordinator of the body of elders! Like the leaven in Jesus’ illustration, the Kingdom message had spread and changed many lives.

¹³ Even in countries where the brothers cannot preach freely, the power of the Kingdom message is still able to change people. We are often surprised when we learn how far the message has spread in such countries. For example, the Kingdom message reached Cuba in 1910, and Brother Russell visited this island in 1913. At first, there was not much growth. But what is happening in Cuba today? There are over 96,000 publishers preaching the good news, and 229,726 attended the Memorial in 2013. That is 1 out of every 48 inhabitants. Even in countries that are not under ban, the Kingdom message may have reached into areas where local Witnesses do not think that witnessing can be done.a (See footnote.)​—Ecclesiastes 8:7; 11:5.

14, 15. (a) How can we personally benefit from the lesson in the illustration of the leaven? (b) What does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

¹⁴ How can we benefit from what Jesus taught us in the illustration of the leaven? When we meditate on the meaning of Jesus’ illustration, we realize that we do not need to worry about how the Kingdom message will reach the millions of people who have not yet heard it. Jehovah has everything under control. But what is our work? God’s Word answers: “Sow your seed in the morning and do not let your hand rest until the evening; for you do not know which will have success, whether this one or that one, or whether they will both do well.” (Ecclesiastes 11:6) Of course, we should always remember to ask Jehovah to bless the preaching work, especially in countries where the work is restricted.​—Ephesians 6:18-20.

¹⁵ Also, we should not be discouraged if we do not see the results of our preaching work right away. We should not despise “the day of small beginnings.” (Zechariah 4:10) The results may eventually be far greater and more wonderful than we ever imagined!​—Psalm 40:5; Zechariah 4:7.

THE TRAVELING MERCHANT AND THE HIDDEN TREASURE

16. What is the meaning of the illustration about the traveling merchant and the illustration about the hidden treasure?

¹⁶ Read Matthew 13:44-46. What is the meaning of the illustrations about the traveling merchant and the hidden treasure? In Jesus’ time, some merchants would travel very far to search for the finest pearls and buy them. The “one pearl of high value” in Jesus’ illustration represents the precious truth of the Kingdom, and the merchant represents those people with good hearts who search everywhere to find this truth. The merchant was willing to sell everything he had “promptly” so that he could buy this valuable pearl. Jesus also gave an illustration of a man who was working in a field and found “hidden” treasure. Unlike the merchant, this man was not searching for treasure. But once he saw its value, he too was willing to sell “everything” so that he could have it.

17. Why did Jesus give the illustrations about the traveling merchant and the hidden treasure?

¹⁷ Why did Jesus give those two illustrations? He showed that the truth can be found in different ways. Some people search for the truth and make sacrifices to find it. Others find the truth even though they are not searching for it, perhaps when someone preaches to them. Each of the men in these two illustrations recognized the value of what he had found and was willing to make huge sacrifices to get it.

18. (a) How can we benefit from these two illustrations? (b) What does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

¹⁸ How can we benefit from these two illustrations? (Matthew 6:19-21) Ask yourself: ‘Do I have the same attitude toward the truth as these men had? Do I view the truth as a treasure? Am I willing to make sacrifices to get it, or do I allow other things to distract me, such as the daily cares of life?’ (Matthew 6:22-24, 33; Luke 5:27, 28; Philippians 3:8) If we really love the truth, we will be willing to do anything to keep it first in our life.

19. What will we consider in the next article?

¹⁹ May we show that we have listened and really understood the meaning of these illustrations. Remember that it is not enough for us just to know what they mean. We need to apply what we learn from them. In the next article, we will consider three more illustrations and see what lessons we can learn from them.

1, 2. How did Jesus strengthen his disciples on the day of his resurrection?

TWO of Jesus’ disciples were walking to a village about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from Jerusalem. They were grieving because Jesus had died and they did not yet know that he had been resurrected. Suddenly, Jesus appeared and walked with them. Then “starting with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them things pertaining to himself in all the Scriptures.” (Luke 24:13-15, 27) They felt comforted and their hearts started to burn within them because he was “fully opening up,” or “clearly explaining,” the Scriptures to them.​—Luke 24:32; footnote.

² That same evening, these two disciples returned to Jerusalem. When they found the apostles, they told them what had happened. As they were speaking, Jesus appeared to all of them. The apostles were very frightened and started to doubt whether this really was Jesus. The Bible explains how he strengthened them: “He opened up their minds fully to grasp the meaning of the Scriptures.”​—Luke 24:45.

3. Why may we feel discouraged in our service to Jehovah, but how can we stay happy?

³ Sometimes we may feel very sad, just as those disciples did. Even though we are busy serving Jehovah, we may feel discouraged if people do not respond to our preaching. (1 Corinthians 15:58) Or we may feel that our Bible students are not making enough progress. Some of them might even reject Jehovah. How can we keep our joy in our ministry? Something that will help us is to grasp fully the meaning of Jesus’ illustrations. We will now examine three of them and see what lessons we can learn.

THE SOWER WHO SLEEPS

4. What is the meaning of Jesus’ illustration about the sower who sleeps?

⁴ Read Mark 4:26-29. What is the meaning of Jesus’ illustration about the sower who sleeps? The sower represents preachers of the Kingdom, and the seed represents the message they preach to people with good hearts. The sower does the normal things that everyone else does, “he sleeps at night and rises up by day.” The growth of the seed takes some time, from the day it is planted until the harvest. During this time, “the seeds sprout and grow tall.” This growth happens “on its own,” gradually and in stages. In a similar way, a person grows spiritually, or draws close to Jehovah, gradually and in stages. When he progresses to the point that he decides to serve God, he “bears fruit” by dedicating his life to Jehovah and getting baptized.

5. Why did Jesus tell the illustration of the sower who sleeps?

⁵ Why did Jesus tell this illustration? Jesus wants us to realize that Jehovah is the one who makes the truth grow in the hearts of “rightly disposed” people. (Acts 13:48; 1 Corinthians 3:7) We plant and water, but we cannot force or speed up the growth. Just like the man in the illustration, we do not know how the growth happens. As we live our lives, we may not even notice the growth of the Kingdom seed in someone else. In time, though, it may bear fruit, and then the new disciple works along with us in the harvest work.​—John 4:36-38.

6. What must we admit about a Bible student’s progress?

⁶ What can we learn from this illustration? First, we need to admit that we cannot control how fast a Bible student progresses in the truth. Even though we do all we can to help and support the student, we would never pressure him to get baptized. Rather, we humbly realize that only he himself can decide if he will dedicate his life to God. Jehovah accepts our dedication only if we really love him.​—Psalm 51:12; 54:6; 110:3.

7, 8. (a) What other lessons do we learn from Jesus’ illustration of the sower who sleeps? Give an example. (b) What does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

⁷ Second, understanding the lesson of this illustration will help us not to be discouraged if we do not at first see results from our teaching work. We need to be patient. (James 5:7, 8) If we have done our best to help the student but the truth does not grow in his heart, it does not mean that we are not good teachers. Jehovah allows the seed of truth to grow only in the heart of a humble person who is willing to make changes. (Matthew 13:23) So we should not judge the effectiveness of our ministry simply by the number of people who get baptized. After all, Jehovah does not measure the success of our ministry by how people respond to our teaching. Rather, he values our diligent efforts.​—Read Luke 10:17-20; 1 Corinthians 3:8.

⁸ Third, we cannot always see the changes that are taking place in a person’s heart. For example, a couple who were studying with a missionary told him that they wanted to become unbaptized publishers. He reminded them that they would first have to stop smoking. He was surprised when they told him that they had stopped several months before. They had realized that even if they smoked in secret, Jehovah could still see them and that he hates hypocrisy. So they decided that they would either smoke in front of the missionary or stop altogether. Even though the missionary had no idea of the huge change this couple had made, their growing love for Jehovah had helped them to make the right decision.

THE DRAGNET

9. What is the meaning of the illustration about the dragnet?

⁹ Read Matthew 13:47-50. What is the meaning of Jesus’ illustration about the dragnet? Jesus said that preaching the Kingdom message is like letting a large dragnet down into the sea. Just as a dragnet catches large numbers of “fish of every kind,” our preaching work attracts millions of people of every kind. (Isaiah 60:5) The millions of people who come every year to our conventions and the Memorial prove this. Some of these people are like “fine” fish, and they become part of the Christian congregation. Others are like “unsuitable” fish, and Jehovah does not accept them.

10. Why did Jesus tell the illustration about the dragnet?

¹⁰ Why did Jesus tell this illustration? The separating of fish in the illustration does not refer to the final judgment during the great tribulation. Rather, it explains something that happens during the last days of this system. Jesus showed that not everyone who likes the Kingdom message will want to become Jehovah’s servant. Many who have come to our meetings or studied the Bible with us are not willing to dedicate their life to Jehovah. (1 Kings 18:21) Others have even stopped coming to the meetings. Some young people have been raised by Christian parents but have not really learned to love Jehovah themselves. Jesus emphasized that each one of us needs to make a personal decision. If we make the right decision, Jehovah will see us as “precious,” or “desirable.”​—Haggai 2:7; footnote.

11, 12. (a) How can we benefit from the illustration of the dragnet? (b) What does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

¹¹ How can we benefit from the illustration of the dragnet? Understanding the lesson of this illustration will help us not to be overly sad or disappointed if a Bible student or one of our children does not want to serve Jehovah. We may have done everything we could to train him. A person does not automatically become Jehovah’s friend just because he agreed to study the Bible or was raised in the truth. If he is not willing to accept Jehovah’s authority, he cannot be one of God’s servants.

¹² Does this mean that those who have left the truth will never be allowed to return to the congregation? Or does it mean that there is no hope for someone who has not yet dedicated his life to Jehovah? No, the opportunity is still there to become Jehovah’s friend before the start of the great tribulation. Jehovah calls out to them: “Return to me, and I will return to you.” (Malachi 3:7) This is emphasized in Jesus’ illustration of the prodigal son.​—Read Luke 15:11-32.

THE PRODIGAL SON

13. What is the meaning of the illustration of the prodigal son?

¹³ What is the meaning of Jesus’ illustration of the prodigal son? The compassionate father in the illustration represents our loving heavenly Father, Jehovah. The son who wastes his precious inheritance represents people who leave the Christian congregation. They become part of Satan’s world, which is like “a distant country,” far away from Jehovah. (Ephesians 4:18; Colossians 1:21) Later, some of these people realize they have made a serious mistake and decide to come back to Jehovah. This requires effort, but because they are humble and genuinely sorry for what they did, Jehovah forgives them and eagerly welcomes them back.​—Isaiah 44:22; 1 Peter 2:25.

14. Why did Jesus tell the illustration of the prodigal son?

¹⁴ Why did Jesus tell this illustration? Jesus showed that Jehovah really wants those who have left Him to return. The father in the illustration never stopped hoping that his son would return. When he saw his son coming from “a long way off,” he ran to meet him. The father wanted his son to know that he was welcome. The illustration should motivate those who have left the truth to return to Jehovah right away. Their relationship with him might be very weak, they may feel embarrassed, and it could seem too difficult to come back, but it is worth the effort! When they return, Jehovah, Jesus, and the angels will rejoice.​—Luke 15:7.

15, 16. (a) What lessons do we learn from Jesus’ illustration of the prodigal son? Give some examples. (b) What does this teach us about Jehovah and Jesus?

¹⁵ How can we benefit from the illustration of the prodigal son? We must imitate Jehovah’s example of love. When someone returns to the congregation, we should not be “overly righteous” and refuse to welcome him back. This would harm our own friendship with Jehovah. (Ecclesiastes 7:16) Another lesson we can learn from this is to view someone who has left the congregation as “a lost sheep,” one who might come back. (Psalm 119:176) And if we meet a person who has left the congregation, will we do what we can to help him return? Will we let the elders know right away so that they can help? We will if we really understand and apply the lesson from Jesus’ illustration.

¹⁶ Those who return are grateful for Jehovah’s mercy and the love and support of the congregation. A brother who was disfellowshipped for 25 years says: “My joy since my reinstatement has continued to increase as I have received ‘seasons of refreshing’ from Jehovah. (Acts 3:19) Everyone is so supportive and loving! I have a wonderful spiritual family now.” A young sister who returned to the congregation after five years says: “I can’t describe to you how it felt to see the love Jesus talked about expressed toward me so clearly. Being part of Jehovah’s organization is priceless!”

17, 18. (a) What lessons have we learned from these three illustrations? (b) What are we determined to do?

¹⁷ What lessons have we learned from these three illustrations? First, we have to understand that we cannot control how fast a Bible student progresses in the truth. We leave that with Jehovah. Second, it is unrealistic to expect that all those who associate and study with us will want to serve Jehovah. Finally, even though some may leave Jehovah, let us never give up hope that they will return. When they do return, let us welcome them back in a way that reflects Jehovah’s love.

¹⁸ May each one of us continue to seek knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. As you read Jesus’ illustrations, ask yourself: ‘What does this illustration mean? Why was it recorded in the Bible? How can I apply its lessons? What do I learn here about Jehovah and Jesus?’ When we do this, we show that we are grasping the meaning of Jesus’ words.

1, 2. How does God want his people, young and old, to worship him?

ARE you a young person? If so, you can be sure that you are an important part of Jehovah’s worldwide congregation. In many countries, a large number of those getting baptized are young people. It is very encouraging to see so many young ones decide to serve Jehovah!

² As a young person, do you enjoy spending time with others of your own age? Probably you do. We like being with friends our own age. Even so, Jehovah wants us to worship him together with all our brothers. He wants his people to be united, no matter how old they are or what their background is. The apostle Paul wrote that it is God’s will that “all sorts of people should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.” (1 Timothy 2:3, 4) And Revelation 7:9 describes those who worship God as coming from “all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues.”

3, 4. (a) What attitude do many young people today have? (b) At Ephesians 4:25, how did Paul describe the congregation?

³ There is a big difference between young ones who serve Jehovah and those who do not. Many who do not serve Jehovah are interested only in themselves and in what they want. In fact, some researchers have said that young people today are more selfish than ever. The way they talk and what they wear show that they do not respect others, especially older people.

⁴ That attitude is everywhere, so it takes a lot of effort to avoid it and to please Jehovah. Even in the first century, Paul warned Christians about having a similar attitude. He called it “the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” (Read Ephesians 2:1-3.) It is encouraging to see young ones in the congregation who are not like that. They want to serve Jehovah with their brothers. They understand that the congregation is like a body with many parts, or members, that work together. As Paul wrote, “we are members belonging to one another.” (Ephesians 4:25) It will be even more important to be united with our brothers and sisters as we get closer to the end of Satan’s world. The following Bible examples will help us to see why we need to stick together, that is, to be united.

THEY STUCK TOGETHER

5, 6. What lesson do we learn from Lot and his family?

⁵ In the past, Jehovah’s people endured some very dangerous situations. Jehovah protected them when they were united and helped one another. All of us, young and old, can learn from these Bible examples. Let us see what happened to Lot.

⁶ Lot and his family were in danger. Jehovah was about to destroy Sodom, the city where they lived. He sent angels to warn Lot to leave the city and run to the mountains. “Escape for your life!” they told him. (Genesis 19:12-22) Lot and his two daughters obeyed the instructions. Sadly, others in Lot’s family did not. When Lot told the men who were going to marry his daughters that they needed to leave, they thought he was just an older man who “seemed to be joking.” They did not take him seriously, so they died when the city was destroyed. (Genesis 19:14) Only Lot and his two daughters survived because they were obedient and stuck together.

7. How did Jehovah help the united group of people who left Egypt?

⁷ We can also learn from the example of the Israelites when they left Egypt. They did not split up into small groups, with each group choosing its own way to the Promised Land. Instead, they traveled together as one united group. And when Jehovah split the waters of the Red Sea, Moses did not go through alone or with just a few of the Israelites. The whole nation went with Moses, and Jehovah protected them. (Exodus 14:21, 22, 29, 30) Even many who were not Israelites decided to serve Jehovah and left Egypt with them. All the people stuck together. (Exodus 12:38) It would have been foolish for a small group of people, maybe young ones, to go off on their own, in a direction that they thought was best. Anyone who went his own way would not have been protected by Jehovah.​—1 Corinthians 10:1.

8. In Jehoshaphat’s day, how were God’s people united?

⁸ In King Jehoshaphat’s day, a large and powerful army was coming to attack God’s people. (2 Chronicles 20:1, 2) What did the Israelites do when surrounded by this frightening enemy? They trusted in Jehovah and prayed for his guidance. (Read 2 Chronicles 20:3, 4.) Individual Israelites did not try to find a solution on their own, but they all gathered together. The Bible says: “All those of Judah were standing before Jehovah, along with their little ones, their wives, and their children.” (2 Chronicles 20:13) The whole nation, young and old, trusted in Jehovah and did what they were told. They stayed together, and Jehovah protected them from their enemies. (2 Chronicles 20:20-27) This is a good example of how God’s people can face opposition as a group.

9. What can we learn from the Christians in the first century?

⁹ In the first century, Christians worshipped Jehovah together in peace and harmony. For example, after many Jews and non-Jews became Christians, they all followed the teachings of the apostles. They spent time together, ate meals together, and prayed together. (Acts 2:42) And when Christians were persecuted, they remained united. That was when they needed one another the most. (Acts 4:23, 24) When we are persecuted, we too must be united and support one another.

UNITED BEFORE JEHOVAH’S DAY COMES

10. When will we need to be united more than ever?

¹⁰ Very soon, we will face the most difficult time in human history. The prophet Joel describes it as “a day of darkness and gloom.” (Joel 2:1, 2; Zephaniah 1:14) At that time, God’s people will need to be united more than ever. Remember Jesus’ words: “Every kingdom divided against itself comes to ruin.”​—Matthew 12:25.

11. What can God’s people learn about unity from Psalm 122:3, 4? (See opening picture.)

¹¹ How united will we need to be? We can learn a lesson from the way the houses were built in ancient Jerusalem. They were built so close together that the psalmist described the city as being “joined together as one.” The people felt secure because they lived so close together and could easily help and protect one another. The closeness of the houses may also have reminded the psalmist of the tribes of Israel when they gathered as one nation to worship Jehovah. (Read Psalm 122:3, 4.) Now and in the difficult days to come, it is very important that Jehovah’s people remain “joined together as one.”

12. What will help us to survive when Gog attacks Jehovah’s people?

¹² Why will our unity be so important in the future? Ezekiel chapter 38 prophesies that “Gog of the land of Magog” will attack Jehovah’s people. That will not be the time to let anything divide us. It would also be a huge mistake to think that Satan’s world will protect us. Instead, we will need to stick close to our brothers. Of course, we will not survive just because we are part of a group. We must personally trust in Jehovah and obey him. Then Jehovah and Jesus will bring us safely through that attack and into the new world. (Joel 2:32; Matthew 28:20) But we must also remain united with God’s people. Do you think that Jehovah will save those who decide to go their own way?​—Micah 2:12.

13. What lessons can young ones learn from the examples we have discussed?

¹³ If you are a young person, can you see how wise it is to stay close to your brothers? Fight the tendency to spend time with only those your own age or to distance yourself from the people around you. Soon all of us, young and old, will need one another more than ever. Strengthen your friendships with your brothers and sisters now, and enjoy serving Jehovah with them. In the future, being united with Jehovah’s people will save your life!

“MEMBERS BELONGING TO ONE ANOTHER”

14, 15. (a) Why is Jehovah training us to be united? (b) What counsel does Jehovah give us so that we can be united?

¹⁴ Jehovah is helping us “to serve him shoulder to shoulder” with our brothers and sisters. (Zephaniah 3:8, 9) He is training us for the future when he will “gather all things together in the Christ.” (Read Ephesians 1:9, 10.) Jehovah’s purpose is to unite all those in heaven and on earth as one family who worships him. And there is no doubt that Jehovah will do this. Young ones, you can be part of that family forever. Do you want to be united with Jehovah’s organization?

¹⁵ Jehovah is training us to be united now so that we can live peaceably with one another in the new world. He patiently teaches us to “have mutual concern for one another,” to “have tender affection for one another,” to “keep comforting one another,” and to be “building one another up.” (1 Corinthians 12:25; Romans 12:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; 5:11) Jehovah knows that because we are imperfect, it is not always easy for us to be united. That is why he tells us to keep on “forgiving one another.”​—Ephesians 4:32.

16, 17. (a) What is one reason we have our meetings? (b) What can young ones learn from Jesus’ example?

¹⁶ Another way Jehovah helps us learn to stick together is by means of the meetings. Hebrews 10:24, 25 reminds us that one reason we meet together is to encourage one another to do what is good. And we will need our meetings more and more as we get closer to Jehovah’s day.

¹⁷ Jesus is a good example for us because he enjoyed meeting with Jehovah’s people. When he was 12 years old, he went with his parents to a large meeting at the temple. At one point, Jesus’ parents could not find him. Did he leave to spend time with other young people? No. When his parents found him, Jesus was with the teachers at the temple, talking about the Scriptures.​—Luke 2:45-47.

18. How can prayer strengthen our unity?

¹⁸ We can also strengthen our unity by praying for our brothers and asking Jehovah to help them in specific ways. Praying for our brothers will remind us of how much we care about them. It is important to love our brothers, to encourage them at our meetings, and to pray for them. Young ones, have you tried doing these things so that you can become better friends with those in your congregation? To survive when the end comes, we will need to be close to our brothers, not to Satan’s world.

SHOWING THAT “WE ARE MEMBERS BELONGING TO ONE ANOTHER”

19-21. (a) What are we moved to do because “we are members belonging to one another”? Give examples. (b) What do you learn from the way our brothers help one another during disasters?

¹⁹ Many examples show that Jehovah’s people today “are members belonging to one another.” (Romans 12:5) When disasters cause our brothers to suffer, we feel for them and want to help them. In December 2011, a tropical storm struck the island of Mindanao, in the Philippines. In one night, more than 40,000 homes were flooded, including many of our brothers’ homes. The branch office reported that even before any help arrived from local relief committees, “Christian brothers from other areas were sending help.”

²⁰ In Japan, our brothers suffered terribly when a massive earthquake and tsunami struck the eastern part of the country. Many were left with nothing. For example, Yoshiko lost her home. She lived far from the Kingdom Hall, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. She says: “Later, we were surprised to find that the day after the earthquake, the circuit overseer and another brother had come looking for us.” With a big smile, she adds: “We really appreciated having our spiritual needs cared for so abundantly through the congregation. In addition, we received coats, shoes, bags, and pajamas.” A member of the relief committee comments: “Brothers from all over Japan were acting as one, trying to help one another. Brothers even came all the way from the United States to help. When asked why they had come such a long way, they said, ‘We are united with our brothers in Japan, and they need help.’” Do you feel proud to be part of an organization in which people truly love one another? Just imagine how pleased Jehovah must be to see such unity.

²¹ If we learn to depend on one another now, we will be prepared to face difficult situations together in the future. Even if we lose contact with our brothers in other parts of the world, we will remain united with our local brothers. A sister in Japan named Fumiko, who survived a typhoon, says: “The end is very close. We need to continue to assist our fellow believers as we look forward to the time when there will be no disasters.”

22. How will our unity help us in the future?

²² Prepare now for Jehovah’s day by doing all you can to be united with your brothers. When Satan’s wicked world is destroyed, Jehovah will save his people just as he did in the past. (Isaiah 52:9, 10) Whether you are young or old, you need to remain united with God’s people to be saved. In the next article, we will discuss why we also need to be thankful for what we have already received.

1. How do many people feel about what they have?

HAVE you ever heard people say, “You don’t know what you have until it’s gone”? Maybe you have felt this way too. For example, a person who grows up in a rich family may take everything for granted. Or because he lacks experience, a young person may not understand what is really important in life.

2, 3. (a) What way of thinking do young Christians need to avoid? (b) What can help us to appreciate what we have?

² If you are young, what is important to you? Young people in the world today often make material things more important than relationships. They may want a good job, a nice home, or the latest electronic gadgets. If their life revolves around these things, they are missing the most important thing, which is their relationship with God. If you have been raised by Christian parents, you have received a wonderful spiritual gift. (Matthew 5:3) A lack of appreciation for your spiritual inheritance could have a bad effect on you for the rest of your life.

³ That does not have to happen to you. We will examine some Bible examples that will help you to appreciate your spiritual inheritance. These examples will help not only young people but all of us to value what Jehovah has given us.

SOME WHO LACKED APPRECIATION

4. How does 1 Samuel 8:1-5 describe Samuel’s sons?

⁴ Some people mentioned in the Bible received a wonderful spiritual inheritance but did not appreciate it. The prophet Samuel started serving Jehovah when he was very young and was always loyal to Him. (1 Samuel 12:1-5) Samuel set a good example, but his sons, Joel and Abijah, did not imitate him. Instead, they became corrupt and bad.​—Read 1 Samuel 8:1-5.

5, 6. What happened with Josiah’s sons and grandson?

⁵ It was similar with the sons of King Josiah. Josiah was a faithful king who loved and worshipped Jehovah. When the book of God’s Law was found and read to Josiah, he applied Jehovah’s instructions. He removed idolatry and spiritism from the land, and he urged the people to obey Jehovah. (2 Kings 22:8; 23:2, 3, 12-15, 24, 25) His sons received a wonderful spiritual inheritance! But when three of his sons and one grandson later became kings, not one of them appreciated what he had received.

⁶ When Josiah’s son Jehoahaz became king, he did “what was bad in Jehovah’s eyes.” He was king for only three months when an Egyptian Pharaoh put him in prison. He later died far from home, as a captive. (2 Kings 23:31-34) Next, his brother Jehoiakim was king for 11 years. He too did not appreciate what he had received from his father. He was so bad that Jeremiah said about him: “With the burial of a donkey he will be buried.” (Jeremiah 22:17-19) Josiah’s son Zedekiah and grandson Jehoiachin were just as bad and did not follow the faithful example of Josiah.​—2 Kings 24:8, 9, 18, 19.

7, 8. (a) How did Solomon waste his spiritual inheritance? (b) What can we learn from Bible examples of those who wasted their spiritual inheritance?

⁷ King Solomon learned from his father, David, how to serve Jehovah, but he later lost appreciation for his spiritual inheritance. “In Solomon’s old age, his wives inclined his heart to follow other gods, and his heart was not complete with Jehovah his God like the heart of David his father.” (1 Kings 11:4) Because of this, Solomon lost Jehovah’s favor.

⁸ All these men had the opportunity to know Jehovah and do what was right. Sadly, they wasted their opportunity. But not all young ones wasted their spiritual inheritance. We will now see some good examples of young ones whom you can imitate.

SOME WHO APPRECIATED WHAT THEY HAD RECEIVED

9. How did Noah’s sons set an excellent example? (See opening picture.)

⁹ Noah’s sons set an excellent example. They had the privilege to help Noah build the ark to save people. They knew that they needed to obey Jehovah, and they went into the ark before the Flood began. (Genesis 7:1, 7) What was the result? Genesis 7:3 says that they took animals into the ark “to preserve their offspring alive over all the earth.” Humans were saved too. Because Noah’s sons appreciated their spiritual inheritance, they had the privilege to help save the human race and to set up true worship again on the earth.​—Genesis 8:20; 9:18, 19.

10. How did four young Hebrew men in Babylon show appreciation for their spiritual inheritance?

¹⁰ Hundreds of years later, four young Hebrew men refused to follow the Babylonian way of life. Hananiah, Mishael, Azariah, and Daniel had been captured and taken to Babylon in 617 before Christ. They were handsome and smart and could have been very successful in Babylon. But they never forgot who they were and what they had learned, and for this Jehovah blessed them very much.​—Read Daniel 1:8, 11-15, 20.

11. How did others benefit from Jesus’ spiritual inheritance?

¹¹ Jesus was the greatest example of one who appreciated his spiritual inheritance. Jesus really loved what his Father taught him. This was clear when he said: “Just as the Father taught me, I speak these things.” (John 8:28) He enjoyed sharing what he learned with others so that they could also benefit. He said: “I must also declare the good news of the Kingdom of God to other cities, because for this I was sent.” (Luke 4:18, 43) The world does not value the truth from God, and that is why Jesus warned his disciples not to be “part of the world.”​—John 15:19.

APPRECIATE WHAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED

12. (a) How does 2 Timothy 3:14-17 apply to many young people today? (b) What should young Christians ask themselves?

¹² If you have parents who love Jehovah, you have received a spiritual inheritance. What the Bible says about Timothy may also apply to you. (Read 2 Timothy 3:14-17.) Your parents have taught you about Jehovah and how to please him. Maybe they have taught you from the time you were a baby. This has helped you to become “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” and to be “completely equipped” to serve God. But do you really appreciate what you have? Ask yourself: ‘How do I feel about the many faithful witnesses who lived before me? Am I proud to be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses? How do I feel to be one of the few people whom God knows? Do I realize what a unique and wonderful privilege I have?’

13, 14. What can some who are raised in the truth be tempted to do, but why would that be foolish? Give an example.

¹³ Some young people who are brought up by Christian parents may not realize how beautiful the truth is and how ugly Satan’s world is. Some have even been tempted to see what life in the world is like. But would you run in front of a moving car just to see if you would get hurt or even die? That would be foolish! So we do not need to try the bad things of this world to discover how much pain they can cause us.​—1 Peter 4:4.

¹⁴ A young man named Gener was raised in the truth in Asia. He was baptized when he was 12. But when he was a teenager, he was tempted to try out life in the world, hoping to find freedom. Gener began to lie to his family and keep secrets from them. By the time he was 15, he was doing some of the bad things his friends were doing, such as drinking and cursing. Gener would come home late after playing billiards and violent computer games with them. Eventually he realized that the things he was doing did not make him happy, and he felt empty. He is now back in the truth. He says that from time to time, he is still tempted by the world but that having Jehovah’s blessing is more important to him.

15. What should we all think about, whether we were raised by Christian parents or not?

¹⁵ Even if your parents are not in the truth, think about the wonderful privilege you have to know and serve the Creator! Of all the billions of people on the earth, Jehovah kindly revealed himself to you. What a blessing! (John 6:44, 45) Whether we learned the truth from our parents or not, we can be very happy that we know it. (Read 1 Corinthians 2:12.) Gener says: “Who am I to be known by Jehovah, the Owner of the universe?” (Psalm 8:4) A Christian sister says: “Students feel very proud just to be recognized by their teacher. How much more of a privilege it is to be known by Jehovah, the Grand Instructor!”

WHAT WILL YOU DO?

16. What is the wise choice for young Christians?

¹⁶ Think about your wonderful spiritual inheritance, and make it your goal to serve Jehovah. Follow the good example of faithful ones of the past. Do not be like most young people in the world who are wasting their lives and who do not have a future.​—2 Corinthians 4:3, 4.

17-19. Why is it smart to be different from the world?

¹⁷ Of course, it is not always easy to be different from the world. But it is the smart thing to do. Think about an athlete who qualifies for the Olympics. To reach that level, he has to be different from his peers. He avoids many things that would take his time and attention. He is willing to be different so that he can train more and reach his goal.

¹⁸ Most people in the world do not think much about the bad results their actions could lead to, but Jehovah’s servants do. If we are different from the world and we avoid things such as immorality that could ruin our relationship with Jehovah, we will “get a firm hold on the real life.” (1 Timothy 6:19) The sister mentioned earlier says: “If you stand up for what you believe, you’ll really feel great at the end of the day. It will prove that you’ve got the strength to go against the flow of Satan’s world. Most of all, it’s as if you can see Jehovah God being proud of you and smiling at you! That’s when you feel good about being different!”

¹⁹ Do not waste your life by thinking only about what you can get now. (Ecclesiastes 9:2, 10) You understand why you are here and that you have the opportunity to live forever. This helps you to make good decisions and avoid “walking just as the nations” do. Your life has real meaning.​—Ephesians 4:17; Malachi 3:18.

20, 21. If we make the right decisions, what can be our future? But what does Jehovah require of us?

²⁰ If we make the right decisions, we can have a happy life now and even live forever in God’s new world. Jehovah will bless us more than we can ever imagine. (Matthew 5:5; 19:29; 25:34) However, he does not give these blessings to everyone. He requires our obedience. (Read 1 John 5:3, 4.) But our efforts to serve Jehovah faithfully now are worth it!

²¹ Jehovah has already given us so much. We have accurate knowledge of his Word and a clear understanding of the truth about him and his purposes. As Jehovah’s Witnesses, we have the privilege of being called by his name. God promises us that he is on our side helping us. (Psalm 118:7) Let us all, whether we are young or old, show that we appreciate our spiritual inheritance and that we desire to give Jehovah “the glory forever.”​—Romans 11:33-36; Psalm 33:12.

What did Jeremiah mean when he spoke of Rachel’s weeping over her sons?

At Jeremiah 31:15, we read: “This is what Jehovah says: ‘A voice is heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping: Rachel is weeping over her sons. She has refused to be comforted over her sons, because they are no more.’”

Rachel’s two sons did not die before she did. So Jeremiah’s words, written 1,000 years after Rachel died, might seem to be incorrect.

Rachel’s first son was Joseph. (Genesis 30:22-24) Later, Rachel died giving birth to her second son, Benjamin. So we might ask, Why does Jeremiah 31:15 say that she was weeping because her sons were “no more”?

Joseph had two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. (Genesis 41:50-52; 48:13-20) In time, the tribe of Ephraim became the most powerful tribe of the northern kingdom of Israel and came to represent all ten tribes of the northern kingdom. The tribe that came from Rachel’s other son, Benjamin, became part of the southern kingdom of Judah. So it could be said that Rachel symbolized all the mothers of Israel, both of the northern kingdom and of the southern one.

By the time the book of Jeremiah was written, the northern kingdom of Israel had already been conquered by the Assyrians and many of its people were taken away captive. However, some of Ephraim’s descendants may have run away to Judah. In the year 607 before Christ, the Babylonians conquered the southern two-tribe kingdom of Judah and took captives. Many of these were taken to the city of Ramah, about eight kilometers (5 miles) north of Jerusalem. (Jeremiah 40:1) Perhaps some were killed there in the territory of Benjamin where Rachel was buried. (1 Samuel 10:2) So Rachel’s weeping could refer to the sorrow that was felt over the death of all the Benjamites or of those killed near that location, Ramah. It is also possible that Jeremiah’s words refer to all the mothers of Israel weeping over the death or captivity of God’s people.

In any case, Jeremiah’s words about Rachel’s weeping over her sons were prophetic. They refer to what happened hundreds of years later when Jesus was a small child. King Herod commanded that all the boys up to two years of age in Bethlehem, which was on the south side of Jerusalem, be killed. Imagine the heartbreaking sound of those mothers crying because their sons were dead, they were “no more.” It was as if those cries could be heard as far as Ramah, on the north side of Jerusalem.​—Matthew 2:16-18.

Therefore, both in Jeremiah’s time and in Jesus’ time, Rachel’s “weeping over her sons” is used to describe the sadness of Jewish mothers over the death of their children. Of course, those who died and went to “the land of the enemy” death may return when the dead are resurrected.​—Jeremiah 31:16; 1 Corinthians 15:26.

When You Should Not Change Your Mind

We love Jehovah so much that we dedicated our life to him and got baptized. We made a promise to remain faithful to him, and we really want to keep that promise. But our enemy Satan the Devil will do everything he can to break our integrity. (Revelation 12:17) We made a decision to serve and obey Jehovah. If we change our mind, we might lose our life.

More than 2,600 years ago, Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar built a huge golden image and commanded everyone to worship it. Anyone who refused would be thrown into a fiery furnace. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were three young men who worshipped Jehovah and did not want to displease him. So they refused to obey the king, and he threw them into the furnace. Jehovah performed a miracle and saved their lives. But they had been willing to die rather than disobey God.​—Daniel 3:1-27.

Later, the prophet Daniel knew that if others saw him pray to God, he would be thrown into a pit of lions and would die a horrible death. But he continued to pray three times a day. He did not change his decision to worship the true God, and as a result, Jehovah saved him “from the paw of the lions.”​—Daniel 6:1-27.

God’s servants today also keep the promise they made to Jehovah when they dedicated their life to him. A group of young Witnesses in Africa refused to salute a national symbol in a school ceremony, and the school threatened to expel them. Later, the minister of education talked to the young Witness students. They were not afraid, and they politely explained their decision not to salute. Since then, this issue has not come up again. They can go to school without this pressure to disobey Jehovah.

Joseph also faced a test when his wife died suddenly. Joseph’s family respected his wishes regarding funeral arrangements. But his wife’s family are not in the truth, and they wanted to include funeral customs that are displeasing to God. Joseph says: “When I would not compromise, they endeavored to influence my children, who remained resolute. The relatives also tried to organize a wake at my home as is the custom, but I told them that if they insisted on having a wake, it would not be at my home. They knew that a wake would not be in harmony with my beliefs nor those my wife had, so after much discussion they held it at another location.

“During this difficult time of mourning, I begged Jehovah for help so that our family would not break his laws. He heard my prayers and helped us to remain firm despite the pressure.” Joseph and his children never even considered changing their decision to obey Jehovah.

When You May Need to Change Your Mind

In the year 32, a non-Israelite woman asked Jesus to remove a demon from her daughter. Although she asked him many times, he did not answer her. He explained to his disciples: “I was not sent to anyone except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” The woman did not stop asking, so Jesus told her: “It is not right to take the bread of the children and throw it to the little dogs.” She showed she had great faith, answering: “Yes, Lord, but really the little dogs do eat of the crumbs falling from the table of their masters.” Jesus changed his mind and removed the demon from her daughter.​—Matthew 15:21-28.

By being willing to change his mind when appropriate, Jesus imitated Jehovah. For example, when the Israelites disobeyed Jehovah by worshipping a golden calf, he decided that they deserved to die. But when Moses begged him not to kill them, Jehovah was willing to change his mind.​—Exodus 32:7-14.

Like Jehovah and Jesus, the apostle Paul was willing to change his mind. On his first missionary trip, Mark left him. For this reason, Paul did not want to take Mark along on any other trips. But later it seems that Paul saw that Mark had matured and that he could be very useful. So Paul said to Timothy: “Bring Mark along with you, for he is helpful to me in the ministry.”​—2 Timothy 4:11.

What do we learn from all of this? Jehovah, although perfect, is willing to change his mind because he is merciful, patient, and loving. We are not perfect, and we do not always see things correctly. So there is even more reason for us to change our mind at times. For example, we might change our opinion of others when we understand more about their situation.

We may sometimes need to change how we think about theocratic goals. We may study the Bible and go to meetings, but we may delay getting baptized. Or we may be able to pioneer but hesitate to start. A brother may not want to serve as a ministerial servant or an elder in the congregation. (1 Timothy 3:1) Have you ever felt like that? Do you think that you could change your mind? Jehovah invites you to enjoy these privileges and be happy serving God and others.

Ella, a Bethelite in Africa, says: “When I first came to Bethel, I did not know if I would stay long. I had the desire to serve Jehovah whole-souled, but I also felt very close to my family. At first, I missed my family so much! Yet, my roommate encouraged me, so I decided to stay. After spending ten years at Bethel, I feel that I want to continue as long as possible serving my brothers and sisters by remaining in my Bethel assignment.”

When You Must Change Your Mind

There are times when we must absolutely change our mind. For example, Cain became jealous of his brother and “grew hot with anger.” God saw that Cain was going to do something bad and warned him to control his anger. God said that sin was “crouching at the door.” But instead of changing his mind and attitude, Cain ignored God’s warning. The sad result was that Cain murdered his brother!​—Genesis 4:2-8.

We can also learn from the example of King Uzziah. At first, he was obedient and had a good relationship with Jehovah. But sadly, he became very proud. He went into the temple to offer incense, although only priests were allowed to do that. The priests warned him not to, but he did not change his mind. Uzziah “became enraged” and ignored their warning. So Jehovah struck him with leprosy.​—2 Chronicles 26:3-5, 16-20.

A modern example of one who needed to change his mind is Joachim, who was baptized in 1955 but was disfellowshipped in 1978. More than 20 years later, he changed his attitude, repented, and came back to the truth. When an elder asked him why he waited so long, Joachim said: “I was both angry and proud. I do regret that I waited so long. While I was disfellowshipped, I knew that Jehovah’s Witnesses taught the truth.”

We too may need to change our decisions and actions at times. When we are willing to do this, Jehovah will be pleased with us.​—Psalm 34:8.

GUY HOLLIS PIERCE, a member of the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses, finished his earthly course on Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at the age of 79. As one of Christ’s brothers, he was resurrected and received his heavenly reward.​—Hebrews 2:10-12; 1 Peter 3:18.

Guy Pierce was born in Auburn, California, U.S.A., on November 6, 1934, and was baptized in 1955. He married his beloved wife, Penny, in 1977 and raised a family. He was also like a father to many others. In 1982 he and Penny began pioneering together. Starting in 1986, he served as a circuit overseer in the United States for 11 years.

In 1997, Guy and Penny Pierce began serving as members of the United States Bethel family. Brother Pierce worked in the Service Department, and in 1998 he was appointed as a helper to the Personnel Committee of the Governing Body. On October 2, 1999, at the annual meeting, it was announced that he had been appointed as a member of the Governing Body. In recent years, he served at different times with the Personnel, Writing, Publishing, and Coordinators’ committees.

Brother Pierce had a warm smile and a good sense of humor. People from many different backgrounds and cultures felt comfortable with him. But what really attracted people to him was his love, his humility, his respect for God’s laws and principles, and his complete faith in Jehovah. Guy Pierce often said that it was more likely for the sun not to rise than for Jehovah’s promises not to come true, and he wanted the whole world to know this.

Brother Pierce worked hard for Jehovah, starting early every morning and often continuing late into the night. He traveled all around the world to encourage his Christian brothers and sisters, and he was never too busy to spend time with any who needed his help or asked for advice. Even many years later, fellow believers remember his hospitality, friendship, and Scriptural encouragement.

Our brother and dear friend will be missed by his wife, his six children, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his many spiritual children. Mark Sanderson, a fellow member of the Governing Body, gave the memorial talk for Brother Pierce at Brooklyn Bethel on Saturday, March 22, 2014. He spoke about Brother Pierce’s heavenly hope and read Jesus’ words: “In the house of my Father are many dwelling places. . . . If I go my way and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will receive you home to myself, so that where I am you also may be. And where I am going, you know the way.”​—John 14:2-4.

We will miss Brother Pierce very much. But we rejoice that he ‘knew the way’ to his permanent ‘dwelling place.’